Hi,
I have hep C and wanted to add a few things.
Please know and remember that MANY medications including some over the counter ones can elevate your liver enzymes. The biggest one that people often don't think about is tylenol or acetaminaphen (sp).
Many years ago I was battling migraines and taking tylenol around the clock for several months. While doing routine bloodwork my Dr. noticed my elevated liver enzymes. Well, I laid off the tylenol for a while and although they were still elevated, they went down quite a bit. Not long after that I found out I had hep c after seeing some people discussing hep-c on nightline and asking the doc to test me. So if you are taking a pain reliever for more than just occasionally, many Dr's recommend that you alternate between tylenol and ibuprofen. Even my kid's Pediatrician recommends this. In my case though.... tylenol is up there w/ alcohol on the things to avoid list.
take care,
star****
Very well put. I believe AST is also present in cardiac muscles and red blood cells.
Fatty liver not from alcohol usually elevates ALT more than AST, often leaving AST normal.
Alcohol abuse usually raises AST more, but ALT is raised too. Drinking can cause short term increases, also.
Muscle damage (including from intense exercise) can raise AST (which is in muscle too).
Don't drink or exercise heavily within a couple of days of getting AST/ALT tests done!
I agree with the doctor to get an ultrasound to be sure your liver is OK. I have also had elevated (slightly) ast and normal for all other liver functions. I also drink as much as you do and sometimes more particularly when watching football :). I had an ultrasound and CT scan, both normal. Alcohol affects everyone differently. Some can drink a bottle of wine a day their whole life and be just fine, others drink just a drink or two a day and have problems. Get the ultrasound for piece of mind. It may be just a case of a mildly fatty liver which is not a serious condition and is completely reversible.
I agree with repeating the liver tests.
Imaging the liver and gallbladder with an ultrasound can further evaluate for any anatomical liver damage. I would also consider testing the ferritin and ANA levels to exclude hemochromatosis and autoimmune hepatitis.
If the liver enzymes are not rising, rechecking them periodically can be done to ensure they are stable.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_